Hawaii Real Estate News

April 9, 2012

Hawaii Loa Ridge: Oahu’s Finest

Hawaii Loa Ridge is located on the east side of Oahu. It is a little east of Aina Haina and is located about ten-minutes away from Kahala Mall. Hawaii Loa Ridge is arguably the most exclusive place to live on Oahu. They do have the most exclusive homes in one area.

The Hawaii Loa Ridge community is highly luxurious and also very expensive. Prospective buyers and future residents will be treated to amazing homes, ocean views and all the luxuries of Hawaii. Hawaii Loa Ridge has its own recreation and fitness area, so you don’t have worry about finding the right gym to join. The area also has a fantastic view of Molokai, Diamond Head, and Koko Head Crater. Hawaii Loa Ridge leads to a hiking trail further inland, and despite its castle-like aura, is conveniently located within twenty minutes of downtown Honolulu.

The ridge is part of a somewhat gated community. However, the Hawaii Loa Ridge is located only minutes away from downtown Honolulu. Offering plenty of amenities within the community itself, the Hawaii Loa Ridge is a community that looks to offer residents almost everything they need, without having to leave the area.

However, this is Hawaii, and we all know that there is plenty to see and do. No problem there, Hawaii Loa Ridge is only a few minutes from Kahala Mall, and is also just a stones throw away from the Koko Marina Shopping Center in Hawaii Kai.

If you want beaches and outdoor activities then no problem. Hawaii Loa Ridge is only minutes away from stunning beaches in a bay that includes many water sports such as jet skiing and kayaking. The Hawaii Loa Ridge really does offer everything, and if you are in the market for a luxurious lifestyle in one of Oahu’s finest neighborhood, then Hawaii Loa Ridge Real Estate is where you will want to start your search.

Median prices for homes in Hawaii Loa Ridge on the island of Oahu start in the millions. As stated above, luxury and exclusiveness is the main idea behind this area of Oahu.

If you are looking for majestic single-family homes and condos that are second to none on Oahu, them take some time to look into all the Real Estate prospects that the very exclusive Hawaii Loa Ridge has to offer.

Make plans to visit Hawaii Loa Ridge today. Oahu’s most luxurious and finest communities to live in.

March 21, 2012

Waimea Real Estate - Embrace the natural beauty

Waimea is located on the west side of the island Kauai in Hawaii. This area is more off the beaten track than many other areas in Hawaii. There is plenty of natural wonder that exists here from the white sugar beaches to Waimea Canyon that is an unbelievable 3,600 feet deep.  This area has a population of almost 2,000 people to give an idea of how less compact this area is to other places in the state.

Waimea really is a spectacular sight to behold for residents and tourists alike.  There is the lush rain forests, sandy beaches and blue ocean waters, and of course the crevasses of Waimea Canyon.  National Trust of Historic Preservation features Waimea as one of their “12 Distinctive Destinations.”

There is also more to do in this area than most people would believe.  The nearby town of Hanapepe is an excellent arts community, and the slightly bigger town of Kekaha has great hiking and biking trails.  Kekaha is also a great place to check out the completely Hawaiian culture that still exists.

This area is still a growing environment for tourism, so do not expect too many vacation condos to be available.  Mostly single family homes will be found here, and the average starting price in Waimea is over $200,000.  Many homes at this price will require updating and other work; however, a few of these places could earn an REO and short sale.  Newer homes and those in better condition will be typically between $400 and $500 thousand.  Anyone seeking beach Waimea real estate should expect to pay the most as usual and in this case it is anywhere over $1 million. 

Waimea is a perfect place for a home for someone seeking something less crowded and touristy.  They can embrace the natural beauty that the islands have to offer.  Also, this area is great for absorbing the true Hawaiian spirit.

Posted in Kauai Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Wailuku offers residents some peace and quiet

Wailuku is located in Central Maui west of Kahului in Hawaii.  It is primarily a residential old Hawaiian town, and it was the main tourist destination for people traveling to Maui in the early 20th century.  Since then resort towns such as Wailea and Ka’anapali have surpassed it, and in fact there are not hotels present in Wailuku.  Tourists that travel to the Central Maui typically stay at Kahului.  Residents that live in Wailuku get to enjoy some of the coolest climates in Maui.

Wailuku sits at the base of the West Maui Volcano, and it is home to many historic sites.  Some of those sites are Ka’ahumanu Church, Civic Center Historic District, Chee Kung Tong Society, and Bailey House.  Several of Maui’s government offices are also located in Wailuku.

There are several shopping centers in Wailuku such as Queen Ka’ahumanu Shopping Center and the Maui Mall.  Also, Market Street is the main business district with its many old-fashioned looking wood storefronts.  Even those these exist many residents still prefer to do their shopping and take care of other business affairs at the nearby town of Kahului.

There are many small neighborhoods so real estate in Wailuku is usually easily available.  There is also a wide market range to help fit nearly anyone’s budget.  The neighborhood of Old Wailuku Town has prices starting at the lower end of the range around $350,000.  There are also homes for around the same price across the street from the beach.  Most of these homes will need a lot of work, but sit at great locations for lower prices.  Many people purchase these homes with the intention of tearing down the older structures, and building newer homes on prime land.  Some other fixer uppers start at about $400,000 in the popular neighborhoods of Waikapu Gardens and Waiolani Pikake. Homes at the pricier range are located in the neighborhoods of Sand Hills Estates, Wailuku Heights, and Waiehu around $800,000.

Wailuku is home to many native Hawaiians. One neighborhood, Waiehu Kou, is dedicated to Native Americans only according to the requirements of the Department of Hawaiian Homelands.  This area gives locals a chance to have affordable home ownership.

Condos are not very prevalent in Wailuku because of the lack of a tourist community.  Some condos can be found in Puunone Towers and Puunoe Terrace for under $100 thousand.  Kehalani Gardens and the Villas and Kehalani and Iliahi at Kehalani have a handful of condominiums between $200,000 and $400,000.

The average sale price for a condo is Wailuku is $129,000, and the average price for a home is $355,000.  Most homes were on the market for 247 days.  Many foreclosures and short sales can also be found in this area.

Wailuku offers residents some peace and quiet away from the more tourist centric cities of Maui.  This area is great for people who love small town living with a big historical presence.  Also, Wailuku is set for major redevelopments in the near future so anyone interested in real estate may want to get in on the action.

Posted in Maui Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Makawao is in the Upcountry of Maui

Makawao is in the Upcountry of Maui and sits on the slopes of the dormant volcano Haleakala.  The history of the town dates back to the 1800s after cattle was first delivered to Hawaii.  Makawao is still known for herding cattle because of the fields of grass still in the area.  Downtown gives someone the impression of being back in time with the mix of Maui plantation-style and old west architecture.  The population sits at just over 7,000, and the close community hosts the Makawao Rodeo every Fourth of July.

This area is not only known for ranching, but also for its impressive arts community.  Artists and followers from all over Maui come to the Hui Noean Visual Arts Center.  It has showcase exhibitions, an art gallery, and is even home to art classes.

Olinda sits just above Makawao on the Haleakala Volcano.  This area has a moister and cooler climate than Makawao, and is known for being an agricultural community.  This little area became very well-known after Jimi Hendrix held his Rainbow Bridge Concert here in a cow field.  Olinda is also home to the prominent prep school located in the western part of the country, Seabury Hall.

To the side of Makawao is the small community of Haliimaile.  Many small, cottage-style homes are in this small village. 

Single family homes are a considerate part of the real estate in Makawao available.  Many of these homes sit on lots of one acre or more.  Most people consider the size of the lots of real estate in these areas because of the agriculture environment.  The average price for a single-family home in all three of these areas is $382,500.

Makawao has starting prices for homes around $250K.  Many of these need remodeling or are located on excellent properties that would be better suited to knock the preexisting houses down and build a new home.  Makawao Town is nearby, and most residents prefer to walk into town.  Lots grow in size as individuals leave the center of town, and these homes also need far less work.  Homes here will typically start around $450K.  The neighborhood of Makawao Ranch Acres has homes starting between $300K and $550K.  The wealthier neighborhoods of Pau Hana Estates and Maunalou Plantation Estates sit on several acres and are priced in the millions. 

Acres available are also an important issue for most everyone who purchases real estate in Olinda.  Prices here start in the $400 thousands and can go up to anywhere near $2 million. 

Homes are not available very often in Haliimaile as most of the residents tend to stay.  If an opportunity does arise for someone interested in property here, they should jump on it immediately.

The Upcountry area on this island is some of the most peaceful and relaxing available.  Having only single-family homes are larger properties, gives residents a simple life.  Residents here get to be away from the tourist industry that is prevalent in most of the other areas of Maui.

Posted in Maui Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Lihue is a great vacation destination

Lihue lies in between the east side and south shore areas of the island Kauai.  It is the second largest town on the island and is also the designated county seat of Kauai County.  The population of this area is approximately 5,600, and most of it is made up of government officials and their family.  Lihue is also home to the main airport and harbor on the island, Lihue Airport and Nawiliwili respectively.

Lihue is a large tourist destination, and as a result there are many resorts situated around Lihue.  The beaches in this area are an absolutely stunning site to see.  This is also the largest commercial area on the island so visitors and residents alike do not have to worry about retailers, hotels, shopping centers, or even art.  There are also many historical sites available across Lihue that display the island’s great history.

Real estate in Lihue varies, which is a good thing for anyone buying or selling.  Many homes and property are seeing an increase in value.  In 2011 alone there was a 12 percent increase, and homes only stayed on the market for an average of 179 days.  That makes purchasing real estate in Lihue a sound investment. 

Condos in Lihue offer several different types of units.  For instance, the Kauai Beach Resort has studio-hotel rooms for around $40,000; Banyan Harbor resort has one-bedrooms around $100,000; and Kamamalu, a brand new resort, has two-bedrooms starting around $200,000.  Three bedroom condos can be found in the town starting at $400,000.

Lihue is a popular resort and tourist destination; however, there are still single-family homes available for those that would like to become residents of the area.  Nice one and two-bedroom homes that have been updated can be found for around $300,000.  More luxurious homes in the area can be anywhere between $700,000 and $4 million.

There are also foreclosures and short sales in Lihue for any interested buyers.  These can allow buyers to get a great buying price, but for the most part, the buyer would have to be willing to fix up most of these places.

Lihue is a great vacation destination, and can make a great investment in rental properties.  This area has a great access to the rest of the island, and residents of the island will typically have Lihue on their place to live not only on Kauai, but all of Hawaii.

Posted in Kauai Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Kilauea is a great place for any real estate investor

Kilauea is located on the North Shore of Kauai.  It is a small town very close to Hanalei Bay and Princeville and was once known as the Guava capital of the world.  Some of the most beautiful beaches (Kalihiwai Beach and Kauapea Beach) on Kauai are here and are great for water activities such as scuba diving, sailing, snorkeling, and swimming.  Kauapea Beach is also known as the Secret Beach and is accessed via a steep trail.  The water is rough here during the winter months, but the beach is gorgeous and is only well-known by the locals. 

This town is also very historic and full of charm with the local shops and businesses located in old lava rock buildings.  Some of the most well-known attractions in Kilauea include Kilauea Lighthouse, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, Mt. Kilauea Volcano, and the Na a’ina Kai Botanical Gardens.

Agriculture is a very popular way of life in Kilauea.  There are many different types of small and medium organic produce farms in the area.  There are also a few weekly farmers’ markets where locals will highlight their harvests.

Kilauea has a population of about 2,000 people that have several diverse backgrounds.  The average income sits somewhere around $60,000, and 60 percent of the homes here are owner occupied.  The average price for homes is approximately $1.4 million with an average of 288 days on the market.

Condos here are actually residential condos, which is much different than other areas on the island.  These are usually in a building consisting of no more than two homes in areas set aside for multiple homes.  They are usually mixed into a neighborhood with single-family homes. 

One-bedroom residential condos are available at Kalihiwai River Valley and Kilauea Farms.  These typically have a starting price at just under $1 million.  Anini Vista and Waipake are other neighborhoods that have residential condos between $1 million and up into the multi-million dollar ranges.  These areas also have condos with great views of the Pacific Ocean and provide amenities.  The most affluent residential condos can be found in Kalihiwai Bay between $5 million and $9 million.

Single-family homes are more common in Kilauea, and most of the neighborhoods including Maluhia Hale, Seacliff Estates, and Kilauea Estates have starting prices under $1 million.  Kalihiwai Ridge also has homes that start under $1 million, but they can easily climb to over $10 million.  As it is with many areas on the island, the closer the buyer would like to be to the beach the more the home will cost.

Kilauea is a great place for any real estate investor or someone seeking a luxurious home by the ocean side.  Kilauea is surrounded by not only beautiful beaches but also the green mountainside.  Those who seek out a home in this area are truly asking to live in paradise.

Posted in Kauai Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Kapalua is located on the northwest shore of Maui

Kapalua is located on the northwest shore of Maui just north of Lahaina.  It is a beautiful destination resort with white beaches and world famous golf courses.  The PGA’s Hyundai Tournament is actually held on this resort each year.  The population in this area is tiny with only 515 people, and the average household income is $112K.  The people that make up Kapalua are a very diverse group.  There are other festivals and events that happen in this area each year such as the Kapalua Wine and Food Festival and the Celebration of the Arts. These events draw people across the globe into this small community.  Kapalua also has its own airport, Kapalua Airport that is for all of West Maui.

Residents of the resort do more than their share to take care of the island.  A few of these ways would be the Pu’ukukui Preserve Watershed that provides water not only to residents in Kapalua but to all of West Maui; the resort golf courses are certified Audubon sanctuaries; and Honolua Wao Kele is a program created to restore plant life that is indigenous to the area.

Kapalua is surrounded by five bays and beaches that offer not only beautiful beaches but cater to different water sports as well.  DT Fleming Beach is great for surfing and waterboarding; Kapalua Bay is for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking; Honolua Bay is also great for surfing during the winter months and is also a good place for snorkeling and diving in the summer; and Oneoloa Bay is the secret beach of the area.

Homes for the most part are located in the Kapalua Resort.  There are townhome and condominium communities as well as single-family neighborhoods.  Homes here are available to full time residents of Maui and those looking for a second or vacation home.  Many investors have also purchased rental property in Kapalua because of its popularity.

One and two bedroom golf villas are available here between $850K and $1 million.  The Golf and Bay Villas make great vacation rentals as well.  More luxurious townhomes are available at Coconut Grove and Kapalua Ironwoods at starting prices of $2 million.

The resort also has many desired estates that have large single-family homes that sit on several acres with fantastic views of the water and other islands.  Some of these neighborhoods are Plantations Estates, Honolua Ridge, Pineapple Hill, and Kapalua Place, and homes here are purchased between $2.5 million and nearly $10 million.

The average home in Kapalua Resort sales for $2.2 million, and a home here is absolutely the definition of luxury living.  Buyers can choose from so many different kinds of neighborhoods to call their next home.  It is also a quick drive to get to other activities on the island as Kaanapali and Lahaina are both only 20 minutes away.  This is a great area to live for anyone seeking a luxurious lifestyle with the beach and world renowned golf courses just seconds away.

Posted in Maui Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Kalaheo is a very laid back town set off the beaten track

Kalaheo is the oldest town in Kauai and is located in the southern region between Lihue and Kauai.  The population here is just over 4,000 people, and some of the most undisturbed beaches can be found in this area.  Also the largest producer of coffee beans in Hawaii, Kalaheo Café and Coffee Company, is located here.

Kalaheo is a great destination point for people on vacation; however, the accommodations are limited because of the size of the area and the amount of local residents who live here.  This makes this an ideal location for residents.  Several restaurants and cafes are located here besides the local favorite Kalaheo Café and Coffee Company.  There is a multitude of cuisines to choose from.

There are many activities that residents and tourists enjoy participating in.  Some of these are fishing, swimming, snorkeling, biking, and laying out in the sun.  There are also favorite attractions such as the Olu Pua Gardens and Plantaions, Inuoloue Reservoir and Alexander’s Lake, and Kaukiuki Falls.

The real estate in Kalaheo has several things to contribute to its good standing including the scenery, views, and the serene environment.  Many of the homes here either have ocean or mountain views.  The average sales price for a home here is $350K.  Condos in resorts such as Kalaheo Pali Kai have a starting price around $200K.  It is also possible to find homes that are in foreclosure, short sales, or REOs for a low price in Kalaheo.  This area is also a great place to buy investment property.  The great price ranges here make it so that practically everyone is able to purchase property.

Kalaheo is a very laid back town set off the beaten track, and that is what makes it so great for residents and tourists.  Residents want to relocate here, and tourists visit to achieve a peaceful vacation but never want to leave.  It is actually common for visitors to come here on vacation only to end up calling it home.  This is a tight-knit community that has ties to the same culture.  People are so attracted to Kalaheo because it has a natural beauty that cannot be found in the overly tourist areas across Hawaii.

Posted in Kauai Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Ka’anapali is located on the West Side of Maui

Ka’anapali is located on the West Side of Maui and is not only a premiere resort destination, but Hawaii’s first master planned family resort community.  There are several major resorts located in the area.  Some of these are the Westin, Sheraton, and Marriot among other major chains and world class golf courses.  Ka’anapali is a very popular destination for tourists and residents because of the amazing beaches and spectacular views of the West Maui Mountains.  Ka’anapali Beach also known as Dig-me Beach by the locals occupies a three-mile stretch and was once voted “Best Beach in the US.”

Ka’anapali has a population of just over 1,515 people with most of the residents occupied in some form of the tourism industry.  Many of these jobs are at the resort or in other areas that cater to tourists.  Residents here are more affluent than in other areas because of the resort oriented community and have an average income of about $105K.

Some activities that locals and tourists enjoy is going to Black Rock for snorkeling and cliff diving.  There is also shopping and dining that is typically done at Whalers Village, which has many local and national stores.

Real estate available in Ka’anapali is single-family homes and condominiums in the resort communities.  Ka’anapali Shores and Maui Eldorado are great locations to purchase a vacation home with prices starting out at $200K and going over $2 million for the more luxurious condos with a view.  Ka’anapali Plantation has townhomes that start at $300K for one-bedrooms and $550K for two-bedrooms.  More luxurious condos in the area are priced between $600K and over $1 million.

The Pinnacle, Ka’anapali Hillside, and Ka’anapali Vista are beautifully landscaped neighborhoods with single-family homes.  These homes will typically start at prices a little lower than $1 million.  More affluent estates will be listed in the multi-millions and will typically have stunning views of the mountains and ocean.

The average time on the market for a home in Ka’anapali is 393 days.  It is typically a little longer than in other areas because people making purchases here are usually considering a vacation home or making an investment, which tends to take a little more time.

Someone considering purchasing Ka'anapali real estate has a multitude of options as there are several types of homes in a wide price range to meet any budget.  This is a great investment for someone considering purchasing rental property as tourists love this area and rentals are constantly staying filled.  It is also a great place just to have a second home to get away to paradise for vacation.

Posted in Maui Real Estate
March 21, 2012

Haiku is where paradise can truly be found

Haiku can be found on the island of Maui in the North Shore region.  It is a tropical paradise that entices not only tourists but locals too with its distance to the water. There are numerous outdoor activities that can take place in this area, and many of these can take place near many of the homes. These include trails, hiking, and swimming.  There are also several parks in the area including Haiku Park, the Fourth Marine Division Park, Pa’uwela Point Park, and Hookipa Beach Park. These provide several types of recreational activities for everyone in the area.

There are 8,000 residents in Haiku, and many of them were drawn to the area because of its distance to the water; however, Haiku is not an oceanfront community. It is close to some of Maui’s favorite beaches including Kihei, Wailea, and Makena. One of the best perks of living in this area is that residents are close enough to the busy areas for convenience, but they are still far enough away for privacy and relaxation.

This was once a thriving pineapple industry town, but now many of the old buildings have been turned into shopping centers, restaurants, and other businesses.  Two of the shopping centers are Haiku Town Center and Haiku Marketplace. The town is still full of its rich history.

Most of the real estate in Haiku consists of single-family homes, and many of these have a main house and an “ohana” or cottage on the property. Most of these homes are available on two acres of land, which is just enough for growing a garden or planting some flowers.

The average price for homes in Haiku is just under $1 million with an average of 203 days on the market.  There are homes here that are capable of fitting practically anyone’s budget.  Homes in the area that need some updating can be found as low as $299K.  Small cottages are available starting at $500K, and small homes on nice lots are listed at starting prices of $599K. Haiku Ranch Estates has very nice homes in a landscaped environment that are priced between $799K and $1.2 million.

Haiku is where paradise can truly be found.  Anyone that would like to experience it year round or even during certain seasons should consider purchasing real estate here.  It is truly a tropical paradise with beautiful lush green properties, and being just on the outskirts of busier environments.

Posted in Maui Real Estate